Become a Notary: South Dakota State Information

Becoming a notary can be an important and exciting option for many people. Notaries perform many important civic duties and are representatives of their states and counties who ensure the validity of important documents and transactions. Many people find that becoming a notary is a fulfilling and worthwhile career or part time job. Each and every state has different laws for becoming a notary. Learn about your state's specific process to become a notary including notary eligibility and step by step instructions.

Become a Notary in South Dakota

In the state of South Dakota you will be commissioned and approved to be a public notary for the entire state which means you can operate in all cities and counties. The process will be conducted and reviewed by the office of the Secretary of State. Like in all states, you will have to meet certain requirements to become a notary public in accordance with the law, as well as submit an application and pay applicable fees.

South Dakota Notary Requirements

In order to become a notary in the state of South Dakota, you must meet the following requirements:

At least 18 years of age

Be a resident in the state of South Dakota

Never convicted of a felony

South Dakota Notary Term Length

A notary in the state of South Dakota is appointed for a period of six years. If you wish to continue to be a notary in the state of South Dakota after six years, you must renew your notary appointment.

South Dakota Notary Education Requirements

In the state of South Dakota, you are not required by law to take a notary education course, although this is highly recommended to ensure you are operating within the law and completely understand the criteria and liability of your role. You are financially liable for all the documents that you authorize which means it is incredibly important that you fully understand the ins and outs of your role, as well as all the legal requirements.

South Dakota Notary Exam

In the state of South Dakota you are not required by law to pass a notary exam to become an official state notary. However it is recommended that you take a practice notary exam to ensure you fully understand your role and are ready to perform the official duties of a public notary.

South Dakota Notary Bond Requirements

In the state of South Dakota you are required by law to submit a $5,000 bond which ensures that you are conducting your notary business in full accordance with the law.

South Dakota Notary Application Process

Step 1:

Before submitting an application to become a notary in the state of South Dakota, you must first obtain a $5,000 surety bond that will be submitted with your notary application.

Step 2:

Step 3:

Submit the application form and a copy of your $5,000 surety bond to the office of the Secretary of State. The normal cost for submitting a notary application in South Dakota is $25.00.

Secretary of State
500 East Capitol Ave
Pierre, SD 57501

Step 4:

If your application is approved, you will receive a letter with your official South Dakota Notary Commission packet. Make sure to follow all directions carefully.

Step 5:

Purchase the necessary notary equipment for conducting business as a South Dakota notary public. You will need to purchase a South Dakota notary rubber stamp seal or embossing notary seal. It is also recommended that you purchase a notary journal.

Step 6:

Start your career as a South Dakota notary public. You may consider the following books to help create a flourishing business in your community. They offer great advice for marketing your business and finding ongoing clients in your community.

Step 7:

Consider purchasing Errors and Omissions Insurance. Most notaries consider this as an essential to running a successful notary business. Errors and Omissions Insurance protects you, up to the limit of your insurance, from any mistakes you may make as a notary that result in legal actions. This is different than a bond because a bond protects the public; whereas Errors and Omissions Insurance protects you.